AAMVA 75th Anniversary

Oct. 1, 2007, is the beginning of the fiscal year for AAMVA, and also marks the first day of a year-long celebration of a major milestone for the association, its 75th anniversary. In 75 years, both AAMVA as an organization and the industry and profession that association serves have seen dramatic change and evolution. Many great people along the way have provided thankless leadership and guidance. AAMVA plans to recognize these facts and more. 

Members, retired members and others will have the chance to share memories and photos during this celebration. The celebration will reach its culmination with special activities during the Annual International Conference, hosted by Glenn Turner and held in Orlando, Florida next August.

Memories...

Guest Book
Sign our guest book and submit your fondest memory of AAMVA. Don't miss the chance to share a favorite moment with your peers. Visit the guest book today!

Photo Gallery
When you sign the guest book, you will have the chance to upload a photo or three for entry into the AAMVA 75 photo gallery! Don't forget your captions!

Blog
Past AAMVA Chairs of the Board reflect on their personal AAMVA history.

• Bonnie Rutledge, commissioner, Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles, AAMVA Chair of the Board (2005-2006).
• Katherine Burke Moore, deputy director, Office of Traffic Safety, Minnesota Department of Public Safety, AAMVA Chair of the Board (1999-2000).
• Martha Irwin, (retired) director, Tennessee Title/Registration Division, AAMVA Chair of the Board (2000-2001).
• Betty Serian, (retired) deputy secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Safety Administration, AAMVA Chair of the Board (2002-2003).
• Keith Kiser , (retired) director, North Dakota Motor Vehicle Division, AAMVA Chair of the Board (2003-2004).
• Alan Cockman, (retired) administrator, Saskatchewan Government Insurance, AAMVA Chair of the Board (2001-2002)
  

AAMVA 75 ... A Piece of History

Did you know? 

• In November 1940 the Highway Traffic Advisory Committee to the War Department was organized to provide advice on highway transport matters and to ensure state compliance in meeting the essential highway needs of the War Department. AAMVA President A.W. Bohlen and L.S. Harris, Executive Director of AAMVA were designated to represent the Association on the Committee. Harris was later designated secretary of the committee with full authority to act in all matters except those creating new policies or procedures.
  
   
• By 1941,  more than 90 percent of our supply of crude rubber was in the hands of enemy forces. AAMVA was tasked with researching the possibilities of increasing our natural and synthetic rubber supply, as well as studying ways to increase life of tires through mechanical, and social changes.

Read more...    

Whitepapers

Watch this section in the coming year for reflections on a number of topics, including AAMVA's impact on safety, security, fraud, commercial vehicle activity, the look of the driver's license and more.

Historical Articles from MOVE Magazine

• "AAMVA: From the Beginning to the New Millenium" 
  (MOVE, Winter 2001)
  The year 2000 marked a period of change for several individuals and organizations. AAMVA was no exception. As we embarked on the new millenium, we thought it was a good time to reflect on our history, highlight our accomplishments and mark our growth.
   
• A Look at the Evolution of License Plates
  (MOVE, Summer 1998)
  Where would motor vehicle administration and law enforcement be if it weren't for the license plate? This small piece of metal has proven essential to regulating transportation across the world. But, how did it get started?

Congressional Recognition

Ranking Minority Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Rep. John L. Mica, recognized AAMVA's 75th anniversary before the House of Representatives on Wednesday, Dec. 19. Mica stated that AAMVA has been the recognized North American authority for driver licensing and motor vehicle administration. AAMVA's U.S. and Canadian members have worked collaboratively to support and improve motor vehicle administration, safety, identification security and law enforcement. AAMVA has also served as a liaison with other levels of government and the private sector, and its development and research activities have provided guidelines for more effective public service. Mica also noted that AAMVA has fostered a tradition of service in the motor vehicle and law enforcement professions by providing outstanding service to the community through superb customer service initiatives, information technology, safety and the best in public affairs and consumer educational programs throughout North America. Mica closed his remarks stating that he "would like to commend the many achievements of AAMVA and encourage AAMVA to continue its tradition of excellence in service to motorists through its advocacy of improving highway safety." View Mica's remarks online.